Ford Focus availability has jumped, due to a glut of inventory and news that Ford will switch the nameplate from sedan and hatch econo cars to an “active SUV.”

Cars rule. Crossovers, well, they drool. Especially now, thanks to the ongoing crossover obsession among consumers. All sorts of cars can be had at good prices, and the smaller the car – the bigger the deal.

So, if you’re shopping for a good deal on a solid set of wheels, bust out of the follower mentality and take a serious look at the cars on this list. Heck, you might even think about plunking down some cash on a minivan and make your life easier for a change. Point is, gas prices will go up, and cars are safe, fun, practical, and more efficient than a similarly sized SUV.

Just remember three of the most important points that help most deals come together:

A vehicle worthy of recommendation

Stacks and stacks of incentive cash or a low interest rate

A dealership eager to negotiate because they have too many models on the lot

Ultimately, the bottom line is this: when too many cars sit unsold, there is not enough space on dealer lots to park new inventory. Additionally, the more time a car sits, the less money a dealership makes. If you can find the good cars that aren’t selling, the ones that the automaker and dealer are eager to move, then you can score a killer deal.

As simple as that seems, it’s not – at all. And that’s where we come in.

About our approach

To help you figure this out, we’ve come up with a simple formula to help buyers identify specific makes and models that might be prime movers in the market: The number of vehicles available + how long, in days, it will take to sell all available vehicles + current national incentives. Note that there are often additional offers on a dealer and regional level that can further sweeten the pot.

We look first for real slow-pokes, those cars stuck on dealer lots for 80 days or more. Then we compare special offers and cash back discounts.

We then cross-reference vehicles based on current sales trends; if a model has fallen below its 2017 sales pace, it may end up here. Or, if there’s a high volume of vehicles at one time, that might get them on the list.

Finally, we search dealer inventory (if possible) to get a sense of which trims might not be selling so well.

The result is a list of vehicles that you will hopefully find sitting on dealer lots, awaiting a purchase, with an eager salesperson ready to cut a spectacular deal.

Day’s supply, and why it matters

At the core of our approach is what the industry terms “day’s supply,” an ever-changing number based on how many days it takes to sell what’s available to purchase, based on the previous month’s daily sales rate.

For example, recently the Cadillac CTS sedan was reported as having a day’s supply of 94. That means it would take 94 days to sell out all examples of the CTS currently on dealer lots, transport trucks, ports, and factory lots awaiting shipment.

For new cars, a healthy supply is about 60 days. If the number is much lower than 60, that means there’s too much demand compared to the supply – and prices go up. For example, the Honda Civic has 53-day supply. So you’re probably not going to get much leverage on a deal for the Civic.

Day’s supply is important because vehicles that linger cost dealers (and automakers) a significant amount of money in terms of space and investment. In general, the longer something sits, the more willing a sales manager is to negotiate, deal, plead and whine.

Think of it like the discount pastry shelf at your local grocery store. Except with wheels.

Unless otherwise noted, incentives expire at the end of the month, and base sticker prices include automatic transmission and destination charges.

What’s the deal with “off-lease vehicles?”

Lightly used vehicles, fresh off leases, are a strong alternative to new cars.

(Hodna/Wieck)

So-called off-lease vehicles are exactly that: cars, trucks and SUVs that have been turned at the end of a lease. This year, experts say there’s an estimated 4 million of these lightly used vehicles coming back into the market, which means dealers and automakers will be anxious to move ‘em.

Normally, these vehicles are around three or four years old; as such, you can count on a healthy number of them getting inspected and made into Certified Pre-Owned cars. This makes for a strong option if you’re looking for something less expensive than new.

It’s also a good way to buy an expensive model trim with more options than you can afford on a new car, while still getting the peace of mind that comes with a thorough inspection.

Most often, these types of vehicles come with special financing offers.

Spend some time and take a close look at 2014 vehicles from Chevrolet, Ford, Honda and Toyota – experts say they’ve got more volume than most.

Buick LaCrosse

If you’re looking for a large and comfortable car, now is the time. And Buick has the LaCrosse.

(Buick)

Redesigned for the 2017 model year, the Buick LaCrosse is fresh-faced and appealing for buyers who want that smooth and soft big car ride.

And maybe also for those who want more. For example, we suggest the LaCrosse Premium trim with V6 engine, and Dynamic Drive Package. Yep, that means you must buy up the options list to get this Buick as you like it – something not unusual for Buicks.

But if you don’t want an SUV and think a big luxury car is fits the bill quite nicely, take the LaCrosse for a test drive and get some cash back while you’re at it.

Days to sell all available LaCrosse sedans: 121, up from 103

Available Corvettes: 6,000

Special offers: Up to $4,000 allowance, 1.9% APR financing for 60 months

Cadillac CTS

Cadillac is motivated to move the CTS sedan, and is offering up to $5,000 in a cash allowance for existing GM customers.

(Richard Prince/rprincephoto.com)

It’s been over a decade since the Cadillac CTS debuted to a skeptical world. Today, if you’re still cross-eyed about it, you may wish to get outside more – or find a friend.

And if you flat don’t like it, chances are you’ve never taken a test drive.

Arguably one of the best sedans in its class, the CTS has edgy style, performance and a sense of unique class and luxury.

It also has many dollars on the hood, and Cadillac has a 94-day supply of them. And judging from the generosity of General Motors, it seems like a good time to take a closer look at this car.

Our search found a plethora of Luxury AWD models powered by the 2.0-liter, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. Best of all, you can get $6,000 off the price tag of a CTS-V. Enthusiasts may want to do the quick math on that one, seeing as it has a sweet supercharged V8 engine.

Days to sell all available CTS models: 127 – up from 97

Available CTS models: 4,000

Special offers: Up to $5,000 cash allowance, 0% APR financing for 60 months, and lease deals.

Chevrolet Camaro

The Camaro is on sale with cash back on many models currently loitering on dealer lots.

(Chevrolet)

Build a car based on today’s amazing technology, cover it in a skin that hints at the golden age of American muscle machines, and you have yourself a Chevy Camaro. Or a Ford Mustang. Or a Dodge Challenger.

Point is, the romance of car rivalries from the past is an excellent way to market and sell more cars. In this case, the Camaro is probably a good buy for car enthusiasts, thanks to an overall engaging and thrilling drive due in part to the fact that it sits on the same platform as the Cadillac ATS and CTS.

It’s not so great for people wanting a quiet interior, or basic room for four passengers, though. Choose one of those Cadillacs if you need that.

Undeterred? Shoppers may well see plenty of 1LT models on dealer lots, which is essentially the base model with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Before you buy, however, note that a freshened 2019 Camaro is coming soon, with upgrades throughout. That would hint at more deals to come as dealers clear out old inventory in advance of the arrival of a better version.

Chevrolet Corvette

Chevrolet has the solution for all that tax refund money. It’s called the Corvette.

(Jessica Lynn Walker)

I’m not too sure how the Corvette wound up here, on the deal hunter list. But heck, let’s go shopping!

All this availability (9,000 cars sitting in stock) may have something to do with the impending arrival of the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1, or perhaps the looming shadow of the mid-engine Corvette C8, which is expected to launch for the 2020 model year.

Regardless, shoppers should note that inventory is climbing, from 122 days to 135 days. And there are even a few 2017 models out there – a big surprise!

As to whether or not you should buy one, well, it’s hard to say no to America’s classic sports car. The Corvette has offered exceptional performance, style, and (even) value for the better part of 65 years.

You can find a more prestigious badge, but you will be hard-pressed to find a total performance package as compelling as a ‘Vette.

Chevrolet Cruze

The Chevrolet Cruze is a capable strong car, and there are plenty to choose from at dealer lots.

(Chevrolet)

It’s fair to say that the Chevrolet Cruze suffers from really poor timing. Here we have a good and capable small car from Chevrolet, one that competes with Toyota and Honda, and even the critics liking it. Yet car buyers are turning away, uninterested in the efficient mojo of the small car.

Blame it on cheap gas, or even the influx of small SUVs. But regardless – here we are. The Cruze is crowding dealership lots and looking for good homes.

Considering that it was only recently redesigned in 2016, that has all the makings of a good deal for a car that offers a comfortable ride, decent drivability, and ample tech features. There’s also a turbodiesel powertrain, which is a pretty nice option.

Chevrolet Volt

Put a “charge” into your vehicle purchase with these great Volt deals.

(Chevrolet)

The Chevrolet Volt has proven its worth as an innovative and landmark piece of automotive technology – already. Lucky for us, we can still buy it and enjoy the experience of a plug-in hybrid powertrain combined with the comfort and amenities of a total vehicle experience.

It’s a real car for real people – and perfect for the typical hyper-commuter.

That’s a good thing – because the Chevrolet Volt can go places. It offers up to 53 miles of pure electric driving range, and a range-extending engine that delivers over 400 miles by converting power into electricity. EPA efficiency ratings are, of course, excellent: 42 mpg combined.

Chrysler Pacifica

Cash allowances on this DNA Award winner might be enough to make minivans sexy.

Want to know what’s sexy on Tuesday afternoon between school, soccer, work, and dinner? A minivan. That’s because the darn ugly things are the definition of convenience and practicality. And when you have a family, well, that’s SUPER attractive.

So to see a DNA award-winning model on the leftover inventory list is good news, especially since it is the Chrysler Pacifica. Redesigned last year, it’s at the top of its game when it comes to standard and optional features.

There’s also a hybrid version, though a quick look reveals they are in scant supply. If you’re partial to the Pacifica Touring L, however, they’re stacked up like cordwood.

Days to sell all available Pacificas: 90 – up from 80

Available Pacificas: 38,300

Special offers: Up to $4,000 cash allowance, 0% APR financing, and lease deals

Dodge Charger

Looking for a big sedan with flair? Try the Charger and get up to $3,250 cash back.

(FCA US LLC)

Chances are, you’ve probably driven one of these sedans as a rental. If so, you know how easy and comfortable it is to drive. Now just imagine how delightful it would be in a color other than white, and without that yucky old-cigarette smell stuck to the fabric.

Rental or no, the Charger is a capable family sedan that is nevertheless fading from the scene as buyers flock to crossovers. That’s a shame. It’s a stylish and capable car with room enough for five passengers.

Of course, there’s always the SRT Hellcat. Yeah. Forget the SXT and all that nice talk about value. The Hellcat might be close to 70 grand, but who cares? No one can truly put a cash back deal on a bad-ass machine that makes it to 204 mph.

Shoppers will also want to note a fair number of regional offers available on the Charger, further sweetening the pot.

Ford Fiesta

With up to $3,000 cash back, is it possible to buy a new Fiesta for less than $15,000?

(Ford)

If you’re shopping for a Fiesta, chances are you’re looking for a first car, live in a city, or have a lot of clown friends.

Ha! That was a joke about small cars – not necessarily the Fiesta. The Ford is actually quite fun to drive, especially the ST model with its 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder turbo engine.

Unfortunately, the Fiesta doesn’t do so hot when it comes to safety, offering no active safety systems and receiving a “Marginal” score in the small overlap frontal impact crash test conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Small car shoppers interested in the Fiesta will be happy to know that there are plenty of 2017 and 2018 models on lots, even if you’re shopping for the ST hatchback.

Days to sell all available Fiestas: 81, down from 124

Available Fiestas: 16,000

Special offers: Up to $3,000 cash back, 2.9% APR financing, and lease offers

Ford Focus

Few deals are better right now than what you can get on a Ford Focus, with up to $4,000 cash back and ample availability.

(Ford)

The Ford Focus has always been one of my favorite cars. It’s fun to drive, practical, and cheap to buy – perfect! Fitted out the right way, it competes with the Mazda 3 but at a lower price – especially as a used vehicle.

Simply put, you won’t grind your teeth driving it – and you might have some fun.

But about that grinding. You just might want to be wary of the history associated with the car’s optional PowerShift 6-speed automated manual transmission. Models sold between 2012 and 2016 were plagued with problems, to the point that Ford extended the warranty and reached a settlement.

Currently, there are three types of transmissions available in the Focus: a manual 5-speed, the 6-speed PowerShift automatic, and a 6-speed SelectShift automatic. While one hopes that issues found in 2012 have been resolved by 2018, I’d still stick with the manual. It’s more fun, and the automatic turns the Focus into a rental car.

Days to sell all available Focus models: 98, down from 135

Available Focus models: 60,600

Special offer: Up to $4,000 cash back, 2.9% APR financing, and lease offers

Honda Accord

What could be better than bunch of Accords waiting on dealer lots? Try a 1.9% interest rate to sweeten the deal.

(Honda)

The redesigned 2018 Honda Accord is top-to-bottom the class of the sedan pack. From the way it handles to the smooth and powerful turbocharged acceleration with either powertrain, the Accord puts a smile on your face during spirited driving.

Additionally, thanks to the interior design and comfortable seats, it also makes the longest commute melt away.

If you can get a deal on one because people have some weird obsession with SUVs, go take that test drive and you’ll see why sedans were once the most popular type of vehicle in America.

Honda Fit

Honda is offering a low interest rate for up to 72 months as an enticement to get (a) Fit.

(Honda)

Is this the best tiny car? We think so, which is why it’s our Best City Car for 2018. The combination of a surprisingly comfortable and useful interior within a small footprint makes it exceptionally practical.

Don’t believe it? Be sure to check out the “Magic Seat” feature. It allows the rear seat to flip and fold in different configurations, helping to maximize cargo room and utility.

The Fit also comes with the Honda Sensing safety package, which includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning with road departure mitigation.

The safety package costs $1,000 extra on the base LX and Sport models, and comes standard on EX and EX-L. It’s only available on cars equipped with Honda’s CVT transmission, though.

Days to sell all available Fits: 96 – down from 105

Available Fits: 16,000

Special offers: 0.9% to 1.9% APR financing for up to 72 months; lease deals.

Lincoln MKZ

The Lincoln MKZ seems to always have healthy amounts of cash back available.

(Lincoln)

Matthew McConaughey is smiling because you’re about to get a sweet deal on one of America’s best-selling luxury cars. That, and his contact lens went in perfectly!

Seriously, the MKZ is worth a good look. Just ignore the features list that sends the sticker price to the moon and think instead of the MKZ and its classy styling, comfortable interior, quiet ride and advanced technology.

All you need to do is get over that weird German brand fixation.

The Lincoln MKZ makes the idea of a traditional American luxury brand appealing and affordable. Right now, there are a smattering of 2017 models available, as well.